Metal Gear: love it or hate it, the game is one of videogamedom’s most iconic franchises. Maybe it’s too cinematic, maybe it’s too preachy, but give it credit for trying at least. Even if you never want to sneak around in the shaddows chocking out gentically engineered super soldiers, or watch mercenaries wax philosophical about the meaning of life and fate vs. destiny, at least give the series credit for trying. It’s trying to be something different.
The New York Times had an artlicle last Sunday about the debates over Metal Gear’s hidden meanings. Kotaku writer Stephen was interviewed for the article, and was then so interested in the game he wrote a follow up email to the NYT writer discussing Metal Gear Solid’s 4 unique venture into game tragedy. I think serious games broke from the triumphant hero paradigm a long time ago (Septemer 12 or Hush for example) but it’s interesting to see a mainstream game attempt it. Read the rest of this entry »
At last! Games are catching up! As the videogame becomes an increasingly important form of expression, it also becomes an increasingly important form to exploit. According to Kotaku, a study by IGA, an agency devoted solely to advertising in videogames, in association with Nielsen (yes, that Nielsen), has determined that people are okay with a little corporate sponsorship in their games. Read the rest of this entry »
This year’s Games 4 Change Conference was another great success, providing seasoned game designers and excited newcomers the opportunity to share experiences and knowledge. From June 2-6, participants met to discuss developments in serious gaming and critical play that will help gaming become an increasingly valuable vista of the cultural landscape. At the conference there was the sense that games in general and serious games in particular were at a tipping point; poised to become a ubiquitous part of modern living, widely valued, respected, and understood. Read the rest of this entry »
The new iPhone 3G has been announced, and an opinion piece on Gamasutra ponders the possibilities of the iPhone as a viable platform for gaming. Read the rest of this entry »